NVCA Chair candidate’s response to AWARE Simcoe questions: Dan Davidson
AWARE Simcoe January 23 2012
AWARE Simcoe invited the two declared candidates for the chair of the Nottawasaga Conservation Authority to respond to a short questionnaire. The following are the answers received from Innisfil Deputy Mayor Dan Davidson.
1. What is your vision for the NVCA 10 years from now?
That the CA still holds its integrity for its mandated roles and how it has been progressive towards retaining the natural heritage systems of the watershed, as we are heading into a climate where a lot of deregulation of environment protection agencies will be coming down from the federal powers.
2. Do you value the NVCA’s function in assessing and protecting the natural heritage systems of the watershed?
Yes ,as I say. Try living without water, so protecting it is more vital than ever not just from pollution but transporting it out of country.
3. Do you value the role of the NVCA in regulating development plans in accordance with the Conservation Authorities Act?
I value the role we play however I want to make sure that are regulations reflect the climate changes we are facing, and take away regulations that may not apply anymore. I question when the last time the act was reviewed.
4. How should NVCA board members interact with staff on issues that might be raised by the public or private interests?
First I am a person who respects staff / co workers, I feel that they should be able to handle any situation that comes from the public or elsewhere as they are our frontline of expertise. Only if there does not seem to be a way to move forward on a matter or a clarification of policy and procedure then staff should always feel free to contact the board for directors for advancement if possible under our control by the act.
5. Name the top three considerations you will focus on under the NVCA’s Powers of Authority if elected chair of the NVCA?
a) Financial survival, so that we can do what we are obligated to do.
b) Engage our whole team at the NVCA to provide input to see how we can streamline and economise our operations so that procedures move forward that accommodates our customers and our environmental concerns in a non controversial manner that we can all live healthy into the future.
c) last but not least, becoming more involved with community groups, schools and associations and the development industry that can help and assist the CA. With implementing projects, building projects, governing projects and assisting the NVCA to be an authority that is a benefit to the community for healthier living and better lifestyle in Simcoe County, as compared to other areas of Ontario that have been totally neglected and are now paying the higher price.
Thank you
Dan Davidson
Leave a Reply